Paint chip
03-01-2008, 09:41 PM
#1
MBWorld Fanatic!
Thread Starter
Paint chip
I was washing my car today and noticed 3 small chips in the paint about 3 inches from the bottom of the front passenger door. Apparently a rock or something got thrown from the tire. Has anyone had good luck at their dealership in getting minor touch up work done on Obsidian black? I bet that will be a doozy to repair. It chipped it down to the white primer layer and it stands out quite a bit. I think this is worth going the effort to fix. I don't expect absolute perfection but at least make it presentable and not as a sore spot to look at.
I may attempt to spot it in myself as the spots are less than 2 mm in width.
I may attempt to spot it in myself as the spots are less than 2 mm in width.
03-01-2008, 09:54 PM
#2
Senior Member
Sorry to hear about the chips. My dealer has a paint specialist come in one day a week to do touch-up paint repairs with a fine air brush. He says the results are very good, but I haven't used the service yet.
03-01-2008, 10:03 PM
#3
MBWorld Fanatic!
Obviously personal preference but I tend to view such minor rock chips as badges of honor and suspect many of the remedies end up w/own complications....
Have a couple of micro rock chips on hood; one in lower part of front air dam; and a micro-rock chip in passgr side periphery of windshield of my CL63 (prob 99% of people wouldn't notice them but OCD car nuts would)....has 9K+ mis, much of them exuberant wkend driving w/inevitable rock chips....
As much as I'm a fanatic re: carefully parking my car to avoid door dings/wheel scuffs, etc (which I've successfully avoided, despite many yrs of daily urban driving), I view rock chips as part of cost-of-driving....for me, if car has too many of these "driving patina" issues, time to get a new car anyway
....the cure of post-factory paintwork, etc is sub-optimal for this OCD car nut....but to each his own....
Have a couple of micro rock chips on hood; one in lower part of front air dam; and a micro-rock chip in passgr side periphery of windshield of my CL63 (prob 99% of people wouldn't notice them but OCD car nuts would)....has 9K+ mis, much of them exuberant wkend driving w/inevitable rock chips....
As much as I'm a fanatic re: carefully parking my car to avoid door dings/wheel scuffs, etc (which I've successfully avoided, despite many yrs of daily urban driving), I view rock chips as part of cost-of-driving....for me, if car has too many of these "driving patina" issues, time to get a new car anyway
....the cure of post-factory paintwork, etc is sub-optimal for this OCD car nut....but to each his own....
03-01-2008, 10:29 PM
#4
Super Member
I use the mb factory touch up paint to do touch ups myself.. they work great. especially for rock chips on the lower air dam areas. make sure u don't over coat it, then, it looks too obvious and not smooth at all. it had to practice a little to get it right.
03-02-2008, 07:55 AM
#5
MBWorld Fanatic!
Thread Starter
Thanks for every reply as all of you are dead on correct. WSH, I laughed at your badge of honor statement as that is so true. I do indeed have to really look for it to see it, but when the car is facing straight towards the sun, it looks kind of bad. If it weren't for such a bright white primer underneath, it wouldn't look too bad (for those of you with white cars, this is your advantage!)
JohnH: If I get this fixed, it will probably be done at my next service by their local ding /paint doctor. They do great work around here and I might as well let them touch up a couple of other spots, one which was there when I took delivery of the car when new. I saw it , the salesman pointed it out, but I said not to bother.
At least this is not a ding (knock on wood, or should I say sheetmetal?).
djamer: Using the factory touch up paint would be my only recourse if I tried it myself but you're correct about this....it is hard to do and many times it looks worse than just leaving it alone as the smudgy thickness of the touch up paint stands out like a gold tooth on #9.
JohnH: If I get this fixed, it will probably be done at my next service by their local ding /paint doctor. They do great work around here and I might as well let them touch up a couple of other spots, one which was there when I took delivery of the car when new. I saw it , the salesman pointed it out, but I said not to bother.
At least this is not a ding (knock on wood, or should I say sheetmetal?).
djamer: Using the factory touch up paint would be my only recourse if I tried it myself but you're correct about this....it is hard to do and many times it looks worse than just leaving it alone as the smudgy thickness of the touch up paint stands out like a gold tooth on #9.
03-02-2008, 12:13 PM
#7
MBWorld Fanatic!
Thread Starter
)Just at quick glance, you can't see it but when I got down and really looked at it, I think it is down to metal so I will get this touched up professionally sometime within the next 6 months (probably during the summer). Rust is not much of a problem in my area. We are too far away from the beach and we don't get snow to speak of so salt is not an issue. Even when we get snow, we only get sand put on bridges.
Last edited by trumpet1; 03-02-2008 at 01:07 PM.
Trending Topics
03-03-2008, 11:44 AM
#8
Super Member
you can try and touch it up yourself using mb touch-up paint and a match! tear out a match from the package (not a wood match like you would pick up at morton's steakhouse but rather any ordinary pack of (cheap) matches) and use the end that you normally hold to light your cigar (not the end with the sulfur accelerant end) as the applicator. dip the end of the match (that you just tore out of the package) into the mb touch-up paint being careful not to get too much paint on the end of the match and gently dab the stone chips. not a perfect solution - but given the location of the chips - this will work as a good and inexpensive surrogate for a professional fix - especially in an area of the car that you will undoubtedly get more chips in the future.
03-04-2008, 01:03 PM
#10
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: New Jersey (Metro)
Posts: 281
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
S550 / S430 / E320
I actually do believe it is down to the metal even as small as it is. Believe it or not, I used a black Sharpie marker to hide it temporarily. (One of my nice neighbors in that redneck condominium I live in suggested this idea )Just at quick glance, you can't see it but when I got down and really looked at it, I think it is down to metal so I will get this touched up professionally sometime within the next 6 months (probably during the summer). Rust is not much of a problem in my area. We are too far away from the beach and we don't get snow to speak of so salt is not an issue. Even when we get snow, we only get sand put on bridges.
)Just at quick glance, you can't see it but when I got down and really looked at it, I think it is down to metal so I will get this touched up professionally sometime within the next 6 months (probably during the summer). Rust is not much of a problem in my area. We are too far away from the beach and we don't get snow to speak of so salt is not an issue. Even when we get snow, we only get sand put on bridges.I would do the following if it were mine. -
The Dent Wizard is always the first step. If the chip is accompanied by a dent, no amount of filling with paint will make it disappear. After the dent is removed or if it's not dented, use the factory touch-up paint to fill the chip and then use a product called Lanka to remove the excess. here is the link -
http://www.langka.com/chip-scratch-repair-c-21.html
The product won't hurt the original paint. It can even be used to remove all of the touch-up so you can start again. You'll need to do this about three times or so allowing a week to pass between applications. As the touch-up paint dries, it shrinks. That's why you need to do this over a long period of time. When you're satisfied with how well it is filled, then polish it using your favorite polish. I use Menzerna which was designed especially for clear coat paints.
I think you will be happy with the results and glad you learned how to do it yourself.
Last edited by NJS430; 03-04-2008 at 01:08 PM.
03-04-2008, 02:36 PM
#11
MBWorld Fanatic!
Thread Starter
As a perfectionist and someone who only drives black cars, over the years I have tried everything to maintain perfection in the finish of my cars. Although there are professionals who can repair dents perfectly, I have yet to find a professional chip repair service that works. Someone told me once that it is simply a factor of time. It takes time and patience to slowly fill the chip to achieve the best results. It's not something that can be done in 30 minutes or less and therefore not a viable business proposition.
I would do the following if it were mine. -
The Dent Wizard is always the first step. If the chip is accompanied by a dent, no amount of filling with paint will make it disappear. After the dent is removed or if it's not dented, use the factory touch-up paint to fill the chip and then use a product called Lanka to remove the excess. here is the link -
http://www.langka.com/chip-scratch-repair-c-21.html
The product won't hurt the original paint. It can even be used to remove all of the touch-up so you can start again. You'll need to do this about three times or so allowing a week to pass between applications. As the touch-up paint dries, it shrinks. That's why you need to do this over a long period of time. When you're satisfied with how well it is filled, then polish it using your favorite polish. I use Menzerna which was designed especially for clear coat paints.
I think you will be happy with the results and glad you learned how to do it yourself.
I would do the following if it were mine. -
The Dent Wizard is always the first step. If the chip is accompanied by a dent, no amount of filling with paint will make it disappear. After the dent is removed or if it's not dented, use the factory touch-up paint to fill the chip and then use a product called Lanka to remove the excess. here is the link -
http://www.langka.com/chip-scratch-repair-c-21.html
The product won't hurt the original paint. It can even be used to remove all of the touch-up so you can start again. You'll need to do this about three times or so allowing a week to pass between applications. As the touch-up paint dries, it shrinks. That's why you need to do this over a long period of time. When you're satisfied with how well it is filled, then polish it using your favorite polish. I use Menzerna which was designed especially for clear coat paints.
I think you will be happy with the results and glad you learned how to do it yourself.
03-04-2008, 06:12 PM
#12
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: New Jersey (Metro)
Posts: 281
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
S550 / S430 / E320
The good thing about the Lanka is it can be used to remove all of the touch-up paint without effecting any of the original finish. It works up to a week afterward. Your really only need the actual Lanka. Don't be concerned with ordering the fancy kits. It comes with a plastic credit card which I cut into strips about 1/2" wide and bend about 1/2" form the end. I then wrap a piece of linen handkerchief very tightly around the end and tape it. This creates a very flat, very thin pad.
After you apply the touch-up paint and it dries anywhere between 30 minutes and 12 hours - the longer the better. Soak the linen with Lanka, and gentle rub the chip until all of the paint is removed from the area around the paint and only the paint in the chip remains. Takes some practice - rub a little too much and you'll remove all of the paint from the chip - too little and you'll have a bump. Keep in mind that the lanka will discolor the touch-up paint slightly when applied, but it will dry correctly. It will also shrink more when it dries. The best thing is that you are not using sandpaper or disturbing any of the original paint with the repair.
Last edited by NJS430; 03-04-2008 at 06:28 PM.
03-04-2008, 06:18 PM
#13
MBWorld Fanatic!
Thread Starter
Post a picture and I will let you know what I think.
The good thing about the Lanka is it can be used to remove all of the touch-up paint without effecting any of the original finish. It works up to a week afterward. Your really only need the actual Lanka. Don't be concerned with ordering the fancy kits. It comes with a plastic credit card which I cut into strips about 1/2" wide and bend about 1/2" form the end. I then wrap a piece of linen handkerchief very tightly around the end and tape it. This creates a very flat, very thin pad.
After you apply the touch-up paint and it dries anywhere between 30 minutes and 12 hours - the longer the better. Soak the linen with Lanka, and gentle rub the chip until all of the paint is removed from the area around the paint and only the paint in the chip remains. Takes some practice - rub a little too much and you'll remove all of the paint from the chip - too little and you'll have a bump. Keep in mind that the lanka will discolor the touch-up paint slightly when applied, but it will dry correctly. It will also shrink more when it dries. The best thing is that you are not using sandpaper or disturbing any of the original paint with the repair.
The good thing about the Lanka is it can be used to remove all of the touch-up paint without effecting any of the original finish. It works up to a week afterward. Your really only need the actual Lanka. Don't be concerned with ordering the fancy kits. It comes with a plastic credit card which I cut into strips about 1/2" wide and bend about 1/2" form the end. I then wrap a piece of linen handkerchief very tightly around the end and tape it. This creates a very flat, very thin pad.
After you apply the touch-up paint and it dries anywhere between 30 minutes and 12 hours - the longer the better. Soak the linen with Lanka, and gentle rub the chip until all of the paint is removed from the area around the paint and only the paint in the chip remains. Takes some practice - rub a little too much and you'll remove all of the paint from the chip - too little and you'll have a bump. Keep in mind that the lanka will discolor the touch-up paint slightly when applied, but it will dry correctly. It will also shrink more when it dries. The best thing is that you are not using sandpaper or disturbing any of the original paint with the repair.
On that link that you posted, do I buy the "chip repair kit" or the "blob eliminator"? Also, does anyone happen to know if their is a way to get touch up paint without going to the dealer?
03-04-2008, 06:31 PM
#14
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: New Jersey (Metro)
Posts: 281
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
S550 / S430 / E320
I also find using a very fine touch-up applicator helps since the brush that comes with the touch-up paint will put on 10 times more paint then you need to start. I use these -
http://www.griotsgarage.com/product/...applicators.do
Just touch one of these to the brush of the touch-up paint and use it to flow the paint into the chip.
For the most part - primer and clear coat is not necessary if the chip isn't that big.
03-04-2008, 06:40 PM
#15
MBWorld Fanatic!
Thread Starter
The "Blob Eliminator" is the original product that softens and removes the paint. That's the real Lanka product.
I also find using a very fine touch-up applicator helps since the brush that comes with the touch-up paint will put on 10 times more paint then you need to start. I use these -
http://www.griotsgarage.com/product/...applicators.do
Just touch one of these to the brush of the touch-up paint and use it to flow the paint into the chip.
For the most part - primer and clear coat is not necessary if the chip isn't that big.
I also find using a very fine touch-up applicator helps since the brush that comes with the touch-up paint will put on 10 times more paint then you need to start. I use these -
http://www.griotsgarage.com/product/...applicators.do
Just touch one of these to the brush of the touch-up paint and use it to flow the paint into the chip.
For the most part - primer and clear coat is not necessary if the chip isn't that big.
I use those microbrushes daily in my dental work , so I have plenty of those. They are great for applying liquids in small amounts.
03-05-2008, 02:22 AM
#16
Out Of Control!!
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: Silicon Valley, CA
Posts: 10,574
Likes: 0
Received 2 Likes
on
2 Posts
1999 C280 Previous / 2008 E350
I bought the paint bottle from the dealers to cover the front bumper chips. I notice it when I wash my car but what can you do.
03-05-2008, 07:19 PM
#17
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: New Jersey (Metro)
Posts: 281
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
S550 / S430 / E320
Yes - the blob eliminator Kit is all you need.
03-07-2008, 03:22 PM
#19
MBWorld Fanatic!
Thread Starter
03-07-2008, 04:40 PM
#20
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: New Jersey (Metro)
Posts: 281
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
S550 / S430 / E320
Good Luck!
03-09-2008, 10:46 PM
#21
Senior Member
www.quixxusa.com
The Quixx product was tested and received good reviews in the MAR/APR 2008 The Star (Mercedes-Benz Car Club magazine).
The best automotive scratch remover for home use, period. This one actually works! The QUIXX 2-Step Repair System was created by German surface technology experts, passing the highest standards tests and selling madly in 50 countries. Now it has come to the U.S., and we have some. Remove small scratches and restore luster like a body shop, at a fraction of the cost. The kit comes with 2 tubes (1 polish, 1 finish), a polishing cloth, and 4 pieces of special sand paper. Get your hands on one of these miracle workers and save hundreds on detailing.
Central Trading Agency guarantees your satisfaction. We have a 30-day money-back guarantee for QUIXX retail customers. If dissatisfied with QUIXX, return the unused portion within 30 days of receipt for a full refund of the purchase price*. We would also appreciate your reasoning, so we can better serve you in the future.
*(excluding shipping)
Weight: 5 oz
Price: $19.95
The best automotive scratch remover for home use, period. This one actually works! The QUIXX 2-Step Repair System was created by German surface technology experts, passing the highest standards tests and selling madly in 50 countries. Now it has come to the U.S., and we have some. Remove small scratches and restore luster like a body shop, at a fraction of the cost. The kit comes with 2 tubes (1 polish, 1 finish), a polishing cloth, and 4 pieces of special sand paper. Get your hands on one of these miracle workers and save hundreds on detailing.
Central Trading Agency guarantees your satisfaction. We have a 30-day money-back guarantee for QUIXX retail customers. If dissatisfied with QUIXX, return the unused portion within 30 days of receipt for a full refund of the purchase price*. We would also appreciate your reasoning, so we can better serve you in the future.
*(excluding shipping)
Weight: 5 oz
Price: $19.95
03-10-2008, 07:26 AM
#22
MBWorld Fanatic!
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: South Carolina
Posts: 2,069
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes
on
3 Posts
2005 E55 ///AMG
A lot of people like this product also: http://www.paintscratch.com/
03-10-2008, 12:13 PM
#23
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: New Jersey (Metro)
Posts: 281
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
S550 / S430 / E320
The Quixx product was tested and received good reviews in the MAR/APR 2008 The Star (Mercedes-Benz Car Club magazine).
The best automotive scratch remover for home use, period. This one actually works! The QUIXX 2-Step Repair System was created by German surface technology experts, passing the highest standards tests and selling madly in 50 countries. Now it has come to the U.S., and we have some. Remove small scratches and restore luster like a body shop, at a fraction of the cost. The kit comes with 2 tubes (1 polish, 1 finish), a polishing cloth, and 4 pieces of special sand paper. Get your hands on one of these miracle workers and save hundreds on detailing.
Central Trading Agency guarantees your satisfaction. We have a 30-day money-back guarantee for QUIXX retail customers. If dissatisfied with QUIXX, return the unused portion within 30 days of receipt for a full refund of the purchase price*. We would also appreciate your reasoning, so we can better serve you in the future.
*(excluding shipping)
Weight: 5 oz
Price: $19.95
The best automotive scratch remover for home use, period. This one actually works! The QUIXX 2-Step Repair System was created by German surface technology experts, passing the highest standards tests and selling madly in 50 countries. Now it has come to the U.S., and we have some. Remove small scratches and restore luster like a body shop, at a fraction of the cost. The kit comes with 2 tubes (1 polish, 1 finish), a polishing cloth, and 4 pieces of special sand paper. Get your hands on one of these miracle workers and save hundreds on detailing.
Central Trading Agency guarantees your satisfaction. We have a 30-day money-back guarantee for QUIXX retail customers. If dissatisfied with QUIXX, return the unused portion within 30 days of receipt for a full refund of the purchase price*. We would also appreciate your reasoning, so we can better serve you in the future.
*(excluding shipping)
Weight: 5 oz
Price: $19.95
